For its third year in a row, LadyFest will make a collaborative appearance in Shanghai. Attracting both men and women, it is a day to celebrate all things feminine and to empower the female community here in our grand city.
Ladyfest is a community-based not-for-profit music and arts festival that centers on feminism and local female talent. With the first ever Ladyfest conducted in 2000 in the US, it has now become a highlight in communities and cities around the world. After experiencing Ladyfest in their home countries, friends Jen Childs, Joanna Asia Palmowska, Amber Mizerak and Jessica Lum decided that this was a compelling event that must also be hosted in Shanghai. It has been a great success in years past and they are excited to bring even more women and men together for the cause.
Zoe Seiter, a fellow organizer, tells us why this event is so unique and why it’s making a difference. She explains, “Its purpose is to open a dialogue for gender equality and to recognize that we can go through our common struggles together. It allows us to have collaboration between all female talents and vendors. It is really for women who are doing things in Shanghai and it’s something we can bring to the local community as well.”
Tackling topics such as gender equality, feminism, sexuality and womanhood, there is little that won’t be talked about when it comes to women. Although you may think that this event would only attract only those with a vagina, the organizers have found that it is incredibly popular with men who come to show support for their female counterparts and friends. It’s all about highlighting female talent to the community as a whole, not just women to women. A male presence is really important and shows a collective appreciation for what women in Shanghai have to offer.
This year they are excited to make this a two-day event with all new installations, workshops and performances. The first night will kick off by showcasing local and international bands with all female leads. The all-day event on Saturday will feature workshops, installations and exhibits, closing with an after-party that night.
Two of the workshops you should most look forward to are the Hugging Workshop and the Body Language Workshop. The Hugging Workshop is all about respecting people’s boundaries and to better communicate on how you want your body to be treated by others. The Body Language Workshop offers tips on developing more confidence in your body. It will teach ways to depict body language that demonstrates boldness, power and certainty.
Although the event is free entry, there is a suggested donation for a local charity dedicated to empowering women and girls. Whether you are a man, woman, single, married or have kids, LadyFest has something for everyone. So come and embrace your femininity and support the incredible women who are making a difference in Shanghai.
Opening Party: Mar 4, 8-12:30pm, RMB50. Yuyintang, see event listing
Day Event: Mar 5, 12-8pm, Free Entry. Basement 6, see event listing
After Party: Mar 5, 8pm-late, Free Entry. Dada, see event listing
